World Series of Poker played at your table

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Before the final hand is dealt in the 2006 World Series of Poker on Aug. 10, those of you who enjoy the game but might not have turned pro just yet might want to have your own Saturday night poker game (or Friday night, or Tuesday night ...). You can get in on the game with official merchandise from the World Series of Poker, as well as the regular stuff from local gaming stores, which in my book, are just as good for poker gear as anything touting the series.

The World Series of Poker's Web site (www.worldseriesofpoker.com) has updated information about the series itself, but it also has a comprehensive list of rules for several games (hold 'em, Omaha, seven card stud, etc.) and biographical information about the players, in case you're curious.

The site also has a shop with everything from glasses to license plates emblazoned with the World Series of Poker logo. The license plates ($10) are available in seven designs, and World Series of Poker glassware can be had in giant pilsner ($10) and mini pilsner ($7), fluted whiskey glass ($6), starburst mug glass ($8) and tankard glass ($10) styles.

There are some unusual items, like Waldemar Swierzy's World Series of Poker Collection of posters (available in 11-by-17 inches or 24-by-36 inches, $25), some depicting regular poker scenes, while others meld classic works of art with the card game -- the Mona Lisa, for example, who dons shades, holds cards and sits behind a stack of chips.

The World Series of Poker site also carries a handheld electronic Texas Hold'em game ($29.95), World Series of Poker cards in collector's tins ($9.95 for two decks), dealer shoes ($24.95) and electronic card shufflers ($14.94-$29.95). The site also carries the chips you'll need for a realistic game ($69.95 for 200 chips, $99.95 for 300 chips, $129.95 for 400 chips, or $149.95 for 500 chips, all complete with a steel case) and poker chip caddies ($14.95-$59.95), and men's and women's T-shirts ($18-$34).

If you don't already know how to play, learning the game might be something you'll want to look into before the betting starts. Watching the game isn't a bad idea -- the series is airing on ESPN2 -- and rules for several games are on the World Series of Poker Web site.

But if you really want to mix it up, pick up a book called "Dealer's Choice: The Complete Handbook of Saturday Night Poker" by James Ernest, Mike Selinker and Phil Foglio ($11.95, www.amazon.com or at Barnes & Noble). The book has poker basics and how-to info, along with hundreds of variations of the game from those most card players have probably heard of to some truly unusual, lesser-known games.

Last but not least, there's always a huge selection of gaming supplies to be found at J&J Poker Supplies and Unique Collectibles, 9770 S. Maryland Parkway, and Casino Creations, 3095 Montessouri St., which will outfit you with everything you might need for a poker party and also rents out casino equipment. And there's always the gift shop of any casino in town if you're just looking for logo cards and chips.

So happy betting, and may the river always be the card you need.

Maria Phelan is a reporter for the North Las Vegas and Sunrise Views. Retail information appropriate for mention can be sent to mphelan@viewnews.com.